The PAF chief’s visit to Indonesia for defence talks marked a significant step in strengthening bilateral military cooperation. Pakistan Air Force (PAF) Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu met President Prabowo Subianto during his official visit to Indonesia, according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).
During the meeting, the air chief highlighted the longstanding brotherhood and shared values between Pakistan and Indonesia. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to expanding defence collaboration.
President Prabowo expressed interest in leveraging PAF’s advanced training ecosystem and aerospace development infrastructure to enhance Indonesia’s defence capabilities.
PAF Chief Indonesia Defence Talks
The PAF chief Indonesia defence talks also included separate meetings with Indonesia’s defence minister, the commander of the Indonesian National Armed Forces, and the Indonesian air chief. The visiting air chief received a guard of honour at official venues.
Discussions focused on enhanced air force-to-air force cooperation, including joint training programmes from basic to advanced levels. Both sides explored professional exchanges and collaboration in emerging aerospace domains.
The Indonesian air chief sought PAF’s support in operational and flying training, acknowledging the force’s combat experience and professional standards.
#ISPR
Rawalpindi, 13 February, 2026
Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, NI (M), HJ, Chief of Air Staff, #Pakistan Air Force, during his official visit to #Indonesia, called on President Prabowo Subianto.
During the meeting, the Air Chief underscored the shared values… pic.twitter.com/Gxp2M1hZzy
— Pakistan Armed Forces News 🇵🇰 (@PakistanFauj) February 13, 2026In recognition of his efforts to strengthen bilateral ties, Air Chief Marshal Sidhu was awarded the Medal of Honour, the highest decoration of the Indonesian Air Force.
Indonesian leadership appreciated PAF’s modernisation drive and praised the technological capabilities of the National Aerospace Science & Technology Park (NASTP).
The talks also covered broader defence and security cooperation. Officials discussed strategic dialogue and long-term opportunities for mutually beneficial collaboration.
The visit followed earlier discussions in Islamabad regarding potential defence cooperation, including possible equipment sales. However, Indonesian officials clarified that no final decisions have been made.
Interest in Pakistan’s defence capabilities has grown in recent months, particularly after the deployment of its air assets during last year’s short conflict with India.
The four-day visit underscores both nations’ intent to deepen military engagement. Training collaboration, aerospace development, and institutional dialogue remain central pillars of the evolving partnership.
